"Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- The United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan". Words that have gone down in history discussing the attack on Pearl Harbor spoken by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. At the 2017 Field of Flight, you will be able to experience "The Day of Infamy" brought to life by the Commemorative Air Force's long-running "TORA TORA TORA" act.
TORA TORA TORA began in 1972 when six replica Japanese aircraft used in the movie of the same name were donated to the Commemorative Air Force. Soon after, the act became one of the most sought after acts in the air show industry today. The act salutes those we have lost, not just at Pearl Harbor and World War II, but in every campaign we have ever fought. Tora's motto is "Lest We Forget" and the act is designed as a traveling air museum to honor all sides of World War II.
The show begins with ukelele music and a historical introduction where you are asked to close your eyes and learn about everything that lead up to the attack on that fateful day. When you open your eyes next, you are suddenly at Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941. Japanese Aircraft are filling the sky and explosions are rocking the entire airfield, the Japanese have achieved total surprise. You are now not only learning about history, but experiencing it.
During the entire show, you will see 8 replica Japanese Aircraft and over 60 pyrotechnical effects. This is one "living classroom" that you will not want to miss. The act also serves as a salute to those in the Armed Forces.
**Note: The full TORA TORA TORA act (with pyro) will be performed Sunday, July 2 through Tuesday, July 4. No pyro will be used during the show on Saturday, July 1. Instead, a unique non-pyro version featuring the TORA aircraft will be performed on this day**